Misty Fjords Flight Tour

Imagine soaring over towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests that stretch as far as the eye can see. That’s exactly what you get on the Misty Fjords Flight Tour from Ketchikan, a highly-rated experience that offers a rare glimpse of Alaska’s raw, untouched beauty from above. For approximately one hour, you’ll be seated in a Dehavilland Beaver bush plane, guaranteed a window seat and personalized pilot narration that makes the scenery come alive. With prices around $369 per person, this isn’t your average sightseeing flight but a carefully crafted adventure.

Two things we absolutely love about this tour: the spectacular views that unfold as you coast over remote mountain ranges and waterfalls, and the live commentary from the pilot, which enriches the experience with interesting facts about the landscape, history, and wildlife. The ability to communicate directly with your pilot through noise-cancelling headsets means you won’t miss a single detail or question.

One consideration is the weather dependency — as with any scenic flight, cloudy skies or rain can obscure the views or lead to cancellations. It’s worth checking the forecast, but if clear skies are available, you’re in for a treat. This tour appeals most to travelers who cherish authentic, up-close wildlife encounters, panoramic views, and a sense of adventure beyond the usual cruise excursions.

Key Points

• Unbeatable aerial views of Misty Fjords’ cliffs, waterfalls, and mountain peaks
• Personalized narration enhances understanding of the landscape
• Guaranteed window seats for all passengers ensure unobstructed scenery
• Wildlife sightings are common, with animals like bears and goats often seen
• Flexible departures throughout the day accommodate different schedules
• Includes all taxes, fees, bottled water, and pickup/drop-off for added convenience

What Makes This Tour Special?

Flying over Misty Fjords offers an experience that’s hard to match. You’re not just looking at beautiful scenery; you’re floating above a massive landscape shaped by glaciers, with waterfalls pouring from misty mountains and wildlife roaming in the forests below. The fixed-wing Dehavilland Beaver, a classic Alaskan bush plane, provides a stable and quiet ride with excellent visibility. Every passenger gets a window seat, which means no fighting for the best view — it’s all about soaking in the panoramic vistas.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The flight is around one hour, but each trip feels uniquely tailored. You’ll start at Ketchikan’s cruise ship docks or designated meeting points, where the friendly staff will ensure a smooth start. Once airborne, your pilot, often boasting a wealth of local knowledge, will begin sharing live narration. Expect to learn about the geology of the area, how glaciers carved out the fjords, and the flora and fauna that thrive here.

A highlight for many travelers is the chance to land on a remote lake—a rare feature that adds to the sense of adventure. We loved hearing travelers describe the experience of climbing out onto the pontoon surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests — truly a “once-in-a-lifetime” moment. As the plane circles the fjords, you’ll see waterfalls tumbling down cliffs, wildflower patches, and possibly catch glimpses of wildlife like black bears, goats, or even orcas if luck is on your side.

The Experience: Why It Stands Out

The voice-activated headsets are a smart feature, allowing you to talk directly with your pilot and fellow passengers. This makes it easy to ask questions or simply enjoy the conversational tone that makes the flight feel personal. According to reviews, guides like Nate, Lesley, and Steve are friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make your experience memorable.

Many travelers mention how stunning the scenery was, with one calling it “breathtaking,” and another describing it as “the experience of a lifetime.” Some have even spotted wildlife up close — including bears, orcas, and mountain goats — adding an element of anticipation.

wildlife and Nature Encounters

While wildlife sightings depend on the day’s luck and weather, many guests report seeing animals such as bears, black goats, and even orcas during their flight. Landings on lakes open opportunities for photography and exploration, making this trip more than just a sightseeing flight — it’s an immersive experience.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price of $369, you get all taxes, fees, and handling charges, plus bottled water, headsets, and pickup/drop-off services. The group size is limited to 25, so it’s generally a small, intimate experience.

Not included are lunch and gratuities, so plan accordingly. The tour runs several times daily, which makes it flexible to fit into your schedule, whether you’re arriving on a cruise or staying in Ketchikan.

Considerations Before Booking

Weather can be unpredictable in Alaska, and scenic flights are no exception. If poor weather leads to cancellations, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund. It’s advisable to check the forecast and be flexible with your plans. Also, the minimum booking is for two people, so solo travelers might need to join with others or coordinate accordingly.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, photographers, or anyone interested in Alaska’s wilderness. It’s especially suited for those who love learning about their surroundings — the pilot’s narration adds a layer of context that enhances the scenic beauty. Travelers who appreciate small-group, high-quality excursions will find this a valuable way to see the fjords.

The Misty Fjords Flight Tour offers a rare glimpse into Alaska’s pristine wilderness from a perspective few visitors can experience without a plane. It combines stunning scenery, personalized narration, and the thrill of wildlife sightings into a cohesive adventure that leaves lasting memories. It’s an investment in a distinctive experience that’s worth the price for the value and authentic connection with nature.

If you’re visiting Ketchikan and craving a breathtaking aerial view of towering cliffs, waterfalls, and forests, this tour should be at the top of your list. It’s a fantastic way to see Alaska’s wild side and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime journey above one of the most beautiful landscapes on the planet.

Is the flight suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but very young children should check with the operator.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my flight?
If weather conditions are poor and the flight cannot take off, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the flight?
The flight lasts approximately one hour, but each trip is unique depending on weather, wildlife, and pilot discretion.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?
No, wildlife sightings depend on the day’s conditions, but many travelers do see bears, goats, and other animals during their flight.

Can I get out and walk on the fjords?
Yes, the pilot may land on a remote lake, allowing you to step out, take photos, and enjoy the scenery up close.

What’s included in the price?
All taxes, fees, handling charges, bottled water, headsets for communication, and pickup/drop-off are included.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s recommended to book about 67 days in advance on average, but check availability for your travel dates.

Is the tour suitable for people with disabilities?
Seawind Aviation makes efforts to accommodate handicapped passengers; contact the operator beforehand for assistance.

How many people will be on the flight?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, ensuring a comfortable and personalized experience.

Can I cancel if I change my plans?
This tour is non-refundable and cannot be canceled or changed for a refund, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, the Misty Fjords Flight Tour is an exceptional way to experience Alaska’s wilderness from a vantage point that few get to see. Whether you’re a bird lover, a landscape photographer, or just someone eager for a memorable adventure, this flight delivers. Its combination of stunning views, expert narration, and wildlife encounters makes it one of the most authentic and worthwhile excursions in Ketchikan.